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Voters Guide US House of Representatives May 10, 2016 Primary Election

This candidate information is brought to you by the League of Women Voters of West Virginia as a public service. Candidate responses are printed exactly as received, including spelling, grammar and content. [...]]]>

Voters Guide US House of Representatives May 10, 2016 Primary Election

This candidate information is brought to you by the League of Women Voters of West Virginia as a public service. Candidate responses are printed exactly as received, including spelling, grammar and content. Candidates’ responses were limited to 60 words.

Candidates for US House of Representatives Congressional District 1

Democratic Candidate for US House of Representatives Congressional District 1

What measures would you support to address the growing income disparity among Americans?I support bridging the income gap for equal pay between men and women and would sponsor Legislation to do so. I also support increasing the Federal minimum wage to help bring low income earners out of poverty. I would also work to eliminate subsidies/Corporate welfare, and promote programs that help American companies succeed and stay in the US.

What should Congress do to preserve individual rights while also enhancing national security?We need to preserve our Constitutional rights to privacy and stop Congressional over-reach that steps on those rights in the name of National Security. However in the name of National security, I do support the right of the NSA and FBI to perform surveillance with a Court ordered search warrant like it has been throughout history, when evidence is adequate.

What steps could Congress take to address our nation’s epidemic of drug abuse?We need to require evidence-based prevention curriculum to be taught in our schools to intercept those students with a high risk of substance abuse. Bringing social-workers into the schools could also help in identifying and stopping substance abuse along with issues like school bullying that tends to lead students who are abused into a life of substance abuse.

Republican Candidate for US House of Representatives Congressional District 1

Candidate: David B. McKinley

County of Residence:

Party: Republican

Candidate did not reply.

Candidates for US House of Representatives Congressional District 2

Democratic Candidates for US House of Representatives Congressional District 2

Candidate: Mark A. Hunt

County of Residence: Kanawha

Party: Democrat

BiographyDuring 14 years in the legislature, Mark Hunt advocated for working people, small businesses, the middle class and rebuilding infrastructure. Mark played a pivotal role in passing legislation to keep neighborhoods safe, including Meagan’s Law, a required national registry for sex offenders. Hunt also supported laws with enhanced penalties for crimes against the elderly, handicapped and children.

What measures would you support to address the growing income disparity among Americans?First, raise the minimum wage so all wage earners can support themselves without requiring a second job. This also frees up that second job for another job seeking unemployed individual. Second, alter the tax code so that those with more disposable income pay a proportionate share for infrastructure and domestic projects that all Americans enjoy daily.

What should Congress do to preserve individual rights while also enhancing national security?Ensuring constitutionally guaranteed privacy and due process while eaves dropping on potential domestic insurgents are concepts that appear to be at direct odds with one another, but they are not mutually exclusive. Enhancing the security of private citizen information and toughening laws for those individuals who leak private personal information would be the best means to ensure privacy.

What steps could Congress take to address our nation’s epidemic of drug abuse?Congress should implement a federal drug court and drug treatment program. This pilot project in West Virginia funnels non-violent drug abusers through a drug court system where they can obtain addiction treatments, rather than mere jail time. This program has had great success with low acts recidivism.

What measures would you support to address the growing income disparity among Americans?A. Rebuild our 25th in the world infrastructure by adding millions of jobs and accelerating rather than hindering economicgrowth.

B. Resurrect the depression era defeating concepts to convert the currently idle 47% of our workforce into self-esteem building gainfully employed citizens.

C. Eliminate the maximum income subject to SS tax; tax income and investment gains at the same rate, no ceiling.

What should Congress do to preserve individual rights while also enhancing national security?Why must National Security interests prevail over individual rights interests? Simply because, if the national security forces of the United States are defeated, American citizens will no longer enjoy the individual rights that we normally enjoy! The survival of the American civilization is more important in the end than the survival of individual rights for each individual United States citizens.

What measures would you support to address the growing income disparity among Americans?Apply principles of bottom up economic growth. Turn dialogue from selfish individualism to beneficial collective action. Eliminate non-productive tax provisions such as carried interest and deduction of stock options. Impose transactional tax to reduce speculation. Support the rights of workers to organize and collectively bargain. Support gender equality and income. Make post-secondary education affordable.

What should Congress do to preserve individual rights while also enhancing national security?Adopt legislation specifically stating those areas in which Americans have a reasonable expectation of privacy. Establish procedures requiring the intervention of a neutral and detached judicial officer before the United States government is permitted to interfere into those areas where privacy is reasonably expected.

What steps could Congress take to address our nation’s epidemic of drug abuse?Stimulating the economy so people can enjoy the dignity of work would go a long way to stemming the epidemic. To break the cycle, I support funding programs for treatment and rehabilitation and passing second chance legislation to allow people who are convicted of non-violent drug offenses to have real opportunities to work and rejoin society.

Candidate: Cory Simpson

County of Residence: Kanawha

Party: Democrat

Biography

Simpson is a native of Kanawha and spent the last 12 years on active duty as an Army JAG. His service includes years as a prosecutor and one combat tour each with the 82nd Airborne, and Special Forces. His most recent assignment was at the Pentagon serving as legal advisor to the National Commission on the Future of the Army.

What measures would you support to address the growing income disparity among Americans?In the short term, we need to raise the minimum wage so people who work a full week are not living below the poverty line. We then need to expand access to educational and technical opportunities so more people get the education and skill-sets needed to secure solid middle class jobs.

What should Congress do to preserve individual rights while also enhancing national security?From my time in the military, I understand our security challenges. We must ensure our intelligence and security forces have the proper resources and authorities to keep us safe. However, this cannot come at the cost of personal liberties. We are a Constitutional democracy that prioritizes personal liberties and protects our citizens from the government. This must never change.

What steps could Congress take to address our nation’s epidemic of drug abuse?Saint Augustine said “There is no saint without a past; no sinner without a future.” We save money and lives when we treat drug abusers, instead of locking them up. As a former federal prosecutor I believe we should allow those who struggle with addiction the opportunity for redemption and to clear their records when certain conditions are met.

Candidate: Robin Wilson

County of Residence : Roane

Party: Democrat

Biography

I graduated from Glenville State in 1988 with a degree in Biology and Social Studies Education. I’ve been a teacher and social worker for at-risk youth, done community development projects through the Benedum Foundation, helped start small businesses, grown lots of vegetables, and installed our solar power. I feel blessed living with our good neighbors and beautiful hills. www.renew-wv.org

What measures would you support to address the growing income disparity among Americans?First, a fair tax policy, where the richest 1% pay a more progressive share of estate, income, social security, and financial transaction tax. Secondly, create an economic revolution where people and planet are prioritized over profit. Strengthening unions, raising the minimum wage, providing universal health care and free education at public universities would reverse the growing wealth gap.

What should Congress do to preserve individual rights while also enhancing national security?Our Military policies have created terrorism. Eliminating our support for dictators, oil wars, islamophobia, torture, and occupation would remove recruiting tools for ISIS. We should follow the example of Norway which pledged a more open and tolerant society after they lost 76 people in a 2011 bombing. Our strongest weapon is a democratic open society.

What steps could Congress take to address our nation’s epidemic of drug abuse?We need to return to a war on poverty not drugs. The war on drugs has failed us. Treatment, not jail time, is cost effective and humane. People abuse drugs to kill pain. Congress should increase funding for treatment, jobs, and job training to help end the hopelessness that leads to drug use. We should abolish mandatory minimum sentencing laws.

Republican Candidates for US House of Representatives District 2

Candidate: Alex X. Mooney

County of Residence:

Party: Republican

Candidate did not reply

Candidate: Marc Savitt

County of Residence: Jefferson

Party: Republican

Biography

Jefferson County resident. 30 year Martinsburg business owner. Chaired 2 national small business associations. Frequently called to testify before Congress on small business issues. Kean University ’77. Responsible for repealing a WV consumer sales tax. Extensive experience in Washington as a Main Street business owner, outspoken supporter of the free market, makes me uniquely qualified to represent WV.

What measures would you support to address the growing income disparity among Americans?Education is the key to correcting income disparity in America. Additionally, government regulations and our current tax system are forcing major corporations to outsource jobs to other countries. Correcting this will bring jobs back to America and provide better paying jobs for our citizens. Lastly, we must aid lower income citizens to wean themselves off government assisted programs.

What should Congress do to preserve individual rights while also enhancing national security?The greatest threat to national security is both legal and illegal immigration. Our vetting and visa process is a failure. Our government must use existing technology to better protect us. Individual rights can still be preserved by using the Constitution as a guide.

What steps could Congress take to address our nation’s epidemic of drug abuse?Congress must realize the war on drugs was a failure. Incarcerating anyone other than traffickers and dealers is a waste of time and money. Drug courts and rehabilitation is the answer. Congress should re-direct funding for this effort.

Candidates for US House of Representatives Congressional District 3

Democratic Candidate for US House of Representatives Congressional District 3

Candidate: Matt Detch

County of Residence: Greenbrier

Party: Democrat

BiographyI am a native of Greenbrier County. I possess a bachelor’s and master’s degree in criminology. My master’s thesis was on counter-terrorism in Afghanistan. I served four years with the US Secret Service under Presidents Bush and Obama. I currently live in Lewisburg, where I help run a small business. Please find out more at www.detch2016.com

What measures would you support to address the growing income disparity among Americans?I will fight to grow the middle class by attracting well-paying jobs to West Virginia. By developing infrastructure programs, we will make West Virginia more accessible to business and provide great jobs to West Virginians. We must ensure that all citizens and corporations are taxed fairly and that our middle and lower class workers are given opportunities to succeed.

What should Congress do to preserve individual rights while also enhancing national security?Congress must ensure that our intelligence and law enforcement agencies have the tools to track and surveil potential terrorists threats while communicating efficiently with one another. Congress must also hold these agencies accountable by making sure they act within the parameters of our Constitution and not lose sight of our Bill of Rightswhen enacting counter-terrorism policies.

What steps could Congress take to address our nation’s epidemic of drug abuse?Congress can help fight the drug pandemic by enacting legislation with input from medical professionals, law enforcement officials, and recovery experts. We will have to take measures to curb prescription opioid abuse. We must equip law enforcement agencies to capture and convict drug dealers. And we will provide opportunities that prevent addiction and allow addicts to recovery with dignity

This candidate information is brought to you by the League of Women Voters of West Virginia as a public service. Candidate responses are printed exactly as received, including spelling, grammar and content. Candidates’ responses were limited to 60 [...]]]>

This candidate information is brought to you by the League of Women Voters of West Virginia as a public service. Candidate responses are printed exactly as received, including spelling, grammar and content. Candidates’ responses were limited to 60 words.

Candidates for WV Governor

Democratic Candidates for WV Governor

Candidate: Booth Goodwin

County of Residence: Kanawha

Party: Democrat

Biography

Booth Goodwin was the U.S. Attorney for the past 5 years, and a federal prosecutor for 10 years before that. Booth grew up in Ripley and is married to Amy Goodwin, a Wheeling native. Booth and Amy have two sons, Joe and Sam. Booth has a degree in Economics from WVU and his law degree from Washington & Lee University

What would you do as governor to address our state’s epidemic of drug abuse?We must continue to address the supply side of illicit drugs. Drug dealers who peddle their poison in our communities must be held accountable. I did that as U.S. Attorney. We must get help for individuals addicted to drugs. Drug abuse is a public health crisis. We need plentiful drug treatment available where and when people require it.

Considering that many counties in West Virginia cannot fill teaching positions with qualified teachers, what would you do to attract qualified teachers to West Virginia?First, we must show teachers respect. Second, we must pay good salaries and fully fund benefits. Third, we must empower teachers and give them the freedom to make school a place where curiosity and creativity are valued.

What measures would you favor that increase state revenue and/or cut specific programs to resolve the state’s continuing budget shortfalls?

We will rewrite the tax code to make it predictable and consistent with economic reality. We must pay our bills. I will comb through every line of the budget and reevaluate our spending priorities. Fixing PEIA is my first priority. Consultants and studies are not my priorities. I will cut spending where we can and raise revenue where we must.

Candidate: Jim Justice

County of Residence: Greenbrier

Party: Democrat

Biography

Jim Justice is the owner of The Greenbrier and runs 83 different companies. Jim has created jobs in coal, agriculture, medicine, and tourism. He coaches boys and girls basketball at Greenbrier East High School. Jim earned his undergraduate degree and a masters in business administration from Marshall. He and his wife Cathy, have two adult children, Jay and Jill.

What would you do as governor to address our state’s epidemic of drug abuse? When people are hopeless and can’t work, they turn to drugs. Creating more opportunities for people to work is the first step to stopping the drug epidemic. I will crack down on drug dealers who come into our state and poison our people. We need to provide more treatment options for the folks suffering from addiction.

Considering that many counties in West Virginia cannot fill teaching positions with qualified teachers, what would you do to attract qualified teachers to West Virginia?I trust our teachers; and I will get the politicians out of their way. We cannot cut our way to better schools; we need to grow the pie by creating new jobs. I want West Virginia to be an education powerhouse so we can attract the best teachers. We must pay our teachers what they’re worth.

What measures would you favor that increase state revenue and/or cut specific programs to resolve the state’s continuing budget shortfalls? The lack of jobs is the cause of our budget crisis. The politicians are failing because they have no clue how to market our state or create jobs. I’ve created thousands of jobs in the coal business, agriculture, medicine, and tourism. More jobs will solve the financial mess created by the politicians. We should not be raising taxes on people.

Candidate: Jeff Kessler

County of Residence: Marshall

Party: Democrat

Biography

Website: jeffkesslerforgovernor.com

Born in 1955; graduate of Bishop Donahue High School (1974); West Liberty University (1977 BA

Economics/Political Science); WVU College of Law (1981 JD)

Attorney; former City Solicitor, Municipal Court Judge and Assistant Prosecuting Attorney; WV State

What would you do as governor to address our state’s epidemic of drug abuse? The substance abuse epidemic is an equal opportunity destroyer which touches ALL socio-economic and geographic areas. There is a lack of adequate drug treatment and recovery facilities for those who want and need treatment. I will dedicate $10-15 million of additional annual funding from sin taxes to ensure every person in every county has access to get clean and productive.

Considering that many counties in West Virginia cannot fill teaching positions with qualified teachers, what would you do to attract qualified teachers to West Virginia?In order for WV to attract and retain qualified teachers, we must make a commitment to improve teacher pay to our regional average. It wastes resources to educate our teachers and then have them leave to surrounding states due to better compensation. We should also provide student loan forgiveness programs for underserved subject and geographic areas.

What measures would you favor that increase state revenue and/or cut specific programs to resolve the state’s continuing budget shortfalls? I will support additional sin taxes on tobacco and alcohol together with closing corporate tax loopholes on products shipped out of state to raise revenue. You can’t cut your way to prosperity. It takes money to fund education, fix crumbling roads and improve broadband access. Our path forward requires an investment in our People and Infrastructure.

This candidate information is brought to you by the League of Women Voters of West Virginia as a public service. Candidate responses are printed exactly as received, including spelling, grammar and content. Candidates’ responses [...]]]>

This candidate information is brought to you by the League of Women Voters of West Virginia as a public service. Candidate responses are printed exactly as received, including spelling, grammar and content. Candidates’ responses were limited to 60 words.

Candidates for WV Secretary of State

Democratic Candidates for WV Secretary of State

Candidate of Residence: Natalie Tennant

County: Kanawha

Party: Democrat

Biography

I have been Secretary of State for eight years where we provide innovation to you to save businesses time and money; I cut costs, saved money and gave back more than four million dollars to taxpayers; I protected our elections and served our military.

I have a Bachelors and Master’s degree from WVU.

Please visit www.natalietennant.com

What changes would you like to see in West Virginia’s election laws?I have a record of upholding the integrity of elections for voters. I recently championed legislation that makes it easier to keep voter rolls clean of those who have moved or died. We recently started successful our Online Voter Registration and will soon implement Automatic Voter Registration to make it easier for those who are eligible to vote.

What changes need to be made in the way that campaign donor identities and campaign expenditures are made to the public?There is too much money used in political campaigns. To change that, Citizens United opinion must be overturned because it allows unlimited funds that are not easily identified. On the state level, I have updated the Campaign Financing Reporting System that makes it easier for citizens to view candidates’ reports of those who have contributed and what candidates spend.

Candidate: Patsy Trecost

County of Residence:

Party: Democrat

Candidate did not reply.

Republican Candidates for WV Secretary of State

Candidate: Barry Holstein

County of Residence: Kanawha

Party: Republican

Biography

Married with 2 children, I am a combat veteran, retired Army Reserve 1SG, experienced operations

manager, and son of a WV coal miner. As a native West Virginian, I graduated from WV Tech and the

University of Charleston. My values are exhibited in my service to God, family, and country.

www.rally.org/barryholstein

What changes would you like to see in West Virginia’s election laws?The right of the citizens to elect their representatives in government is vital to a democracy and we must do what is necessary to protect the integrity of the election process. For that reason, I support voter id laws that provide a free photo identification card to West Virginia citizens who do not possess an approved form of identification.

What changes need to be made in the way that campaign donor identities and campaign expenditures are made to the public?We must find a way to disconnect the donor from the candidate. By doing this we avoid the practice of gaining favors or access based on donations to campaigns. Blind trusts can be created to accept political donations whereby the candidate would not know who donated and therefore the transaction of favors for donations can not occur.

Candidate: Mac Warner

County of Residence: Monongalia

Party: Republican

Biography

I have extensive legal and military experience and spent my career serving my country abroad and teaching across the world. I spent five years with the US State Department in Afghanistan working to build a functional, legitimate government. From my experience I understand we need to build a government people can trust so prosperity can follow. http://www.warnerforwvsos.com/

What changes would you like to see in West Virginia’s election laws?Promote healthy democracy through fair elections. It should be easy to vote and hard to cheat. I will work with County Clerks to clean up the voter rolls and improve our election process. Fair elections encourage voter participation, and participation promotes faith in government.

What changes need to be made in the way that campaign donor identities and campaign expenditures are made to the public?With protecting our democracy comes protecting our first amendment rights. Transparent, free speech equals more voices, new voices, more information and more participation – all good things. Empowering candidates and political parties helps keep the process transparent. West Virginia has transparent campaign finance laws, now we need to follow them and create an equal playing field for all in our state.

This candidate information is brought to you by the League of Women Voters of West Virginia as a public service. Candidate responses are printed exactly as received, including spelling, grammar and content. Candidates’ responses were limited to 60 [...]]]>

This candidate information is brought to you by the League of Women Voters of West Virginia as a public service. Candidate responses are printed exactly as received, including spelling, grammar and content. Candidates’ responses were limited to 60 words.

Candidates for State Auditor

Democratic Candidates for State Auditor

Candidate: Mary Ann Claytor

County of Residence: Kanawha

Party: Democrat

Biography

I’m a coal-miner’s daughter and life-long resident of WV. I worked as a state auditor for the State Auditor’s Office for over 20 years until the sudden illness of my son.

I have been married to my high school sweetheart, Howard “Cookie” Claytor III, for over 30 years. We

enjoy spending time with our three children and our four grandchildren.

What changes would you make in the operation of the auditor’s office?My main focus initially is: Returning full transparency to government because the citizens deserve to have all the details, developing uniform hiring processes, improving the training of staff and local governments to include satellite training options, lowering audit costs without lowering services, and capping administrative salaries until such time that lower paid employees can receive competitive pay for their services.

What experience, training or education do you have that makes you the best qualified candidate for this office?The only candidate for State Auditor with over 20 years of experience in the following areas: governmental accounting, training local governments and state auditors, working at the auditor’s office, performing compliance and financial audits, holding local governments fiscally accountable, and ensuring expenditures of local governments are in compliance with the laws and regulations of West Virginia. #therightskillsmatter Go to MaryAnnClaytor.com

Candidate: Jason Pizatella

County of Residence: Marion

Party: Democrat

Biography

A lifelong West Virginian and Fairmont native, I graduated from WVU and the WVU College of Law. I practiced law at a firm before joining state government. My government service has included numerous leadership roles: Deputy State Tax Commissioner, separately as Acting Secretary of the Departments of Administration and Revenue, Governor’s Deputy Chief of Staff and liaison to the Legislature.

What changes would you make in the operation of the auditor’s office?This election provides an opportunity to offer fresh ideas on this Office. One potential change will be the reorganization of its divisions. With almost every function automated, it is likely that all aren’t necessary. I will maximize the newest technology and will modify the leadership structure to be more efficient at performing our tasks, and at a lower cost

What experience, training or education do you have that makes you the best qualified candidate for this office?The varying functions of the Auditor’s Office and its eight divisions require not only a skilled manager, but a proven leader and someone who understands the Legislature, the day to day operations of state government, and its interaction with, and services provided to, local governments. I am the only candidate that possesses those qualifications and wide-ranging experience.

Candidate: Robin Righter

County of Residence: Harrison

Party: Democrat

Biography

I have a B.S. in Accounting and the designation of Certified Treasury Professional. I have previously worked as the Purchasing Card Program Administrator and Deputy Social Security Administrator for the WVSAO, was the COO for a Community Action Agency, and I currently own a restaurant, an apparel printing business, and am a licensed insurance agent. My website is righterforwv.com.

What changes would you make in the operation of the auditor’s office?I would examine the procedures of the Chief Inspector’s Division and attempt to determine if there is a way to ensure audits are able to be completed in a more efficient manner. I would also seek to ensure the safety of all electronic payments. It is imperative that we protect the legitimacy of electronic commerce.

What experience, training or education do you have that makes you the best qualified candidate for this office?I have a degree in accounting and obtained the designation of Certified Treasury Professional. I previously worked for the WVSAO where I gained an understanding of state government and the programs the Auditor oversees. I was the Chief Operations Officer where I supervised 150 employees. I also have private business experience. I believe these aspects qualify me for the position.

This candidate information is brought to you by the League of Women Voters of West Virginia as a public service. Candidate responses are printed exactly as received, including spelling, grammar and content. Candidates’ responses were [...]]]>

This candidate information is brought to you by the League of Women Voters of West Virginia as a public service. Candidate responses are printed exactly as received, including spelling, grammar and content. Candidates’ responses were limited to 60 words.

Candidates for Commissioner of Agriculture

Democratic Candidate for Commissioner of Agriculture

Candidate: Walt Helmick

County of Residence:

Party: Democrat

Candidate did not reply.

Republican Candidate for Commissioner of Agriculture

Candidate: Kent Leonhardt

County of Residence: Monongalia

Party: Republican

Biography

Following graduation from college in 1976, with a degree in Wildlife Management, including courses in agricultural sciences, spent 21 years in the USMC, retiring as a LtCol and earned a MS in Business Management. My wife and I restored an abandoned Monongalia County, WV farm. Elected to WV Senate in 2014, Chairing the Committee on Military and vice-chair of Agriculture.

As commissioner, what recommendations would you make to reduce polluted runoff from agricultural operations? I will review water quality data to understand the locations of greatest concern, direct staff and ask partners to assist those farmers in the implementation of BMPs. I will encourage farmers to work with USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, WV Conservation Agency, Conservation Districts, and Extension Service to take advantage of their expertise and financial assistance.

What experience, training or education do you have that makes you the best qualified candidate for this office?WV Law requires the Commissioner to be active in agriculture; He must demonstrate leadership experience, and efficiently administer budgets and programs. I have 20 years of farming and small business experience aided by wildlife and business degrees. A retired Marine Officer demonstrating leadership and organizational skills: as State Senator I have an understanding of government. Farmer, Marine, Senator. kentforwv.com.

This candidate information is brought to you by the League of Women Voters of West Virginia as a public service. Candidate responses are printed exactly as received, including spelling, grammar and content. Candidates’ responses were limited to 60 [...]]]>

This candidate information is brought to you by the League of Women Voters of West Virginia as a public service. Candidate responses are printed exactly as received, including spelling, grammar and content. Candidates’ responses were limited to 60 words.

Candidates for State Treasurer

Democratic Candidate for State Treasurer

Candidate: John D. Perdue

County of Residence:

Party: Democrat

Candidate did not reply.

Republican Candidates for State Treasurer

Candidate: Larry W. Faircloth

County of Residence:

Party: Republican

Candidate did not reply.

Candidate: Ann Urling

County of Residence: Kanawha

Party: Republican

Biography

After a successful 30 year career in banking I am honored to have been recruited to run for WV

State Treasurer. I am from Harrison County and a graduate of WVU. I am currently the Senior

Vice President of Summit Community Bank and an active board member of The Childhood

Language Center and The Rea of Hope and live in

As treasurer, what steps would you suggest to improve the state’s financial situation?I would work with other members of the board of public works in a cooperative manner with a commitment in the Treasurers’ office on modernization,efficiency and transparency. Identifying areas where unnecessary expenses can be eliminated and revenues maximized while also streamlining operations. Greater transparency could be achieved through the use of an online portal similar to the State of Ohio.

What experience, training or education do you have that makes you the best qualified candidate for this office?After almost 30 years of professional banking and management, I have a proven record of budgetary experience and a keen working knowledge in all areas of financial accounting and

banking. The State Treasurer is the State’s Chief Financial Officer. It makes sense to have an

experienced, energetic banking professional with team work and leadership mastery to serve in

This candidate information is brought to you by the League of Women Voters of West Virginia as a public service. Candidate responses are printed exactly as received, including spelling, grammar and content. Candidates’ responses were limited [...]]]>

This candidate information is brought to you by the League of Women Voters of West Virginia as a public service. Candidate responses are printed exactly as received, including spelling, grammar and content. Candidates’ responses were limited to 60 words.

This candidate information is brought to you by the League of Women Voters of West Virginia as a public service. Candidate responses are printed exactly as received, including spelling, grammar and content. Candidates’ responses were limited to 60 words.

Candidates for Justice of the Supreme Court of Appeals

Candidate: Brent Benjamin

County of Residence:

Party: Non-partisan

Candidate did not reply.

Candidate: Wayne King

County of Residence: Clay

Party: Non-partisan

Biography

I AM 71 YEARS OLD AND HAVE BEEN MARRIED TO SANDRA FOR 43 YEARS. THREE CHILDREN: TERRI, CHARLES AND CHRIS. TERRI IS A CLOTHING DESIGNER IN L.A.CALIF. CHARLES WAS A MARINE DURING DESERT STORM AND CONTRACTED CANCER AND DIED. REV. CHRIS IS A SOUTHERN BAPTIST MINISTER IN GULFPORT, MS. TWO GRANDCHILDREN, TABITHA AND GIDEON. B.S. CIVIL ENGR. IN 1967

Do you favor establishment of an intermediate court of appeals in West Virginia? Why or why not?I do not favor the establishment of an Intermediate Court of Appeals in West Virginia and I believe that by using the Business Court, the current way of deciding appeals is being handled very quickly and efficiently. The intermediate court of appeals would add additional costs to litigants and possibly delay a final determination of the matter in controversy.

Are there any reforms you feel are needed in the state’s magistrate court system? Please explain.The Magistrate Court jurisdiction could possibly be expanded to work with the Probation Office and possibly the Drug Court in monitoring first and second drunk driving and drug offenders and use first hand monitoring, counseling, community programs, education and rehabilitative services to end the problem of drunk driving and drug abuse. Also, limited right to appeal of default judgments.

Do you favor establishment of an intermediate court of appeals in West Virginia? Why or why not?No. The appeal system is not over-whelmed. An Intermediate Court would create another barrier to the final disposition of cases. It would increase cost to taxpayers for an additional court system infrastructure, including judges’ salaries. It would increase cost to litigants before reaching Supreme Court in their pursuit of justice.

Are there any reforms you feel are needed in the state’s magistrate court system? Please explain.From the inception of the magistrate system it was recognized that issues would arise from the experience of those involved. A process to review issues was an integral part of the magistrate system. Adherence to this approach provides a process for immediate reform of revealed problems. Such reform must always be in compliance with WV Constitution Article III.

Candidate: Beth Walker

County of Residence: Monongalia

Party: Non-partisan

BiographyI have 26 years of experience handling cases in West Virginia’s courts, first as a partner in the Bowles Rice law firm and currently as Associate General Counsel for the West Virginia United Health System, Inc.I am a conservative committed to the rule of law and to decide cases fairly and impartially without regard to politics.

Do you favor establishment of an intermediate court of appeals in West Virginia? Why or why not?Consistent with the West Virginia Constitution, which empowers the West Virginia Legislature to create additional courts including an intermediate court of appeals, I defer to the Legislature to make that decision based upon policy and budgetary considerations.

Are there any reforms you feel are needed in the state’s magistrate court system? Please explain.The most significant necessary reform to the state’s magistrate court system already occurred in 2015 with the passage of House Bill 2010, which made the election of magistrates nonpartisan and according to division.

Candidate: William R. “Bill” Wooton

County of Residence: Raleigh

Party: Non-partisan

Biography

William R. “Bill” Wooton is a small-town lawyer with extensive experience as a practicing attorney. Public service has been a major part of Bill’s life. He is a retired National Guard Colonel, worked as a prosecuting attorney, served as Majority leader of the House of Delegates, and was the long-time Chair of the Senate JudiciaryCommittee. Website:www.WootonForJustice.com

Do you favor establishment of an intermediate court of appeals in West Virginia? Why or why not?No. In 2011 the Supreme Court adopted rules guaranteeing every litigant the right to appeal. Since 2011 an average of 1,000 cases have been considered per year. While the Supreme Court is busy, the workload is manageable. Given the State’s current fiscal situation, it is not prudent to saddle the taxpayers with an expensive additional level of the judiciary.

Are there any reforms you feel are needed in the state’s magistrate court system? Please explain.West Virginia is blessed to have a cost-effective minor judiciary system that adjudicates disputes expeditiously. Without exception, West Virginians can obtain the prompt resolution of a controversy by a fair and impartial magistrate at minimal cost. While every system devised by man can be improved, I am unaware of any “reforms” needed to the magistrate court system at this time.

This candidate information is brought to you by the League of Women Voters of West Virginia as a public service. Candidate responses are printed exactly as received, including spelling, grammar and content. Candidates’ responses were limited to 50 words.

Republican Candidates for United States Senate

CANDIDATE Larry [...]]]>

Voters Guide US Senate

Voters’ Guide May 13, 2014 West Virginia Primary Election

This candidate information is brought to you by the League of Women Voters of West Virginia as a public service. Candidate responses are printed exactly as received, including spelling, grammar and content. Candidates’ responses were limited to 50 words.

I am free to fight the good fight. Honest hard working fools make all the rest of this world possible. Only honest hard work can save us.

Question 1. What changes in federal laws would you favor that would better protect people and our water resources from chemical spills?

Response: Mother nature gave us water, minerals and many compounds. Mankind learned chemistry and now we have many new compounds. Money in politics pays nothing for true science or simple truth. Father time will bring reason to the many, no matter the wishes of the few. We vote now for only one US Senator, let not the money choose for us.

Question 2. What steps should the federal government take to reduce the number of Americans living in poverty?

Question 3. In view of recent Supreme Court decisions, what steps do you think Congress should take to protect the rights of all American voters?

Response: Selective service registration should be automatic voter registration. Congress should declare Citizens United as unconstitutional. Corporations never feel the pain of parenthood when a child is lost in an unlawful war. To think that war profits could then be used to control politics is unamerican double down.

CANDIDATE Shelley Moore Capito

County of residence Kanawha

Party Republican

Candidate did not reply

CANDIDATE Matthew Dodrill

County of residence Wood

Party Republican

Biography

Matthew has resided in Parkersburg, WV for his entire life. He graduated from PHS in 1997 and from WVUP in 2002 with studies in business. He joined his family’s real estate business in 2003. Given Matthew’s knowledge of the business world, he would be an excellent candidate for bringing a thriving job market to WV.

Question 1. What changes in federal laws would you favor that would better protect people and our water resources from chemical spills?

Response: Ultimately, putting the power of regulations back into the hands of the state. The people living and working in WV know best how to regulate the industries. This should be a matter the state and local governments handle, not the federal. The federal can guide states, but the real power of decision should lie with the people.

Question 2. What steps should the federal government take to reduce the number of Americans living in poverty?

Response: Better structured programs that do not enable people to continue to live in poverty but rather are the hand up to a brighter future. Eased restrictions on businesses, allowing them to hire more people for longer hours. Push hands on education for careers that are capable of supporting families.

Question 3. In view of recent Supreme Court decisions, what steps do you think Congress should take to protect the rights of all American voters?

Response: Congress should unite and impeach the justices that do not uphold the constitution. The power to write laws was never meant to be in the hands of Supreme Court; that is the job of Congress. This misuse of the checks and balances system our government is meant to have puts us on a path to tyranny.

Growing up as the youngest of seven on our family farm, I learned how to do more with less. I brought those West Virginia values to the Secretary of State’s office, where I cut the budget and gave $3 million back to taxpayers. I’m running to bring those values to the Senate and put West Virginia first – www.natalietennant.com.

Question 1. What changes in federal laws would you favor that would better protect people and our water resources from chemical spills?

Response: West Virginia deserves better. We have a responsibility to make sure this never happens again. I support the Chemical Safety and Drinking Water Protection Act, which sets standards, requires inspections and makes sure companies pay for cleanup. I fought for medical testing and loans for small businesses that had to shut down. I will keep fighting for answers and accountability.

Question 2. What steps should the federal government take to reduce the number of Americans living in poverty?

Response: Anyone who works hard for 40 hours a week should be able to feed their family and pay the mortgage. It’s time to raise the minimum wage. West Virginia has what it takes to lead the country in high-paying manufacturing, technology and energy jobs. Let’s end tax breaks for corporations that ship jobs overseas and invest in West Virginia jobs.

Question 3. In view of recent Supreme Court decisions, what steps do you think Congress should take to protect the rights of all American voters?

Response: The freedom of the people to elect their representatives is a cornerstone of Democracy. I support updating the Voting Rights Act to protect the rights of all eligible citizens to cast a ballot.

There is too much secret, special interest money influencing our elections. I support limits on out-of-state special interest money.

CANDIDATE David B. Wamsley

County of residence Wood

Party Democratic

Biography

Born to poverty, I received a full scholarship to Wesleyan, taught school, and received a graduate assistantship in School Psychology at Miami University, Ohio. I’ve been a self-employed School Psychologist for 33 years; conducted 19,000+ psycheducational evaluations and driven 2 million WV miles. I have invested in real estate, roofed houses, and I am a licensed Master plumber. Website: www.wamsleyforsenate.com.

Question 1. What changes in federal laws would you favor that would better protect people and our water resources from chemical spills?

Response: All chemical and industrial sites should have an automatic emergency action plan, scheduled inspections based on specific industry standards, and a self-funded bond/insurance for coverage of liability. I also propose automated continuous water testing sensors integrated to a central databank and strict criminal penalties for violations.

Question 2. What steps should the federal government take to reduce the number of Americans living in poverty?

Response: Vocational Education for 40 percent of 8th grade and above students would provide marketable job skills. Free healthcare would resolve a number of physical and mental health issues, providing a more eager and able workforce. Let’s stop wasting money in foreign countries. We need to incentivize companies to bring jobs back to America.

Question 3. In view of recent Supreme Court decisions, what steps do you think Congress should take to protect the rights of all American voters?

Response: The U.S. Congress must pass legislation to address the unbalanced impact of Citizens United and Speechnow Supreme Court decisions. In addition, no American should be at risk of losing the right to vote because they reside in a state using voter ID laws to interfere with select groups of citizens.

]]>https://www.lwvwv.org/2014/04/21/may-13-2014-primary-election-us-senate/feed/0May 13, 2014 Primary Election US House, Second Districthttps://www.lwvwv.org/2014/04/21/may-13-2014-primary-election-us-house-second-district/
https://www.lwvwv.org/2014/04/21/may-13-2014-primary-election-us-house-second-district/#commentsMon, 21 Apr 2014 15:18:18 +0000Kathy Stoltzhttp://www.lwvwv.org/?p=1005Voters Guide US House of Representatives, Second District

Republican Candidates for US House of Representatives, Second District

CANDIDATE Robert Lawrence Fluharty

County of residence Jefferson

Party Republican

Biography

Robert Fluharty is a 20-year veteran of the U.S. Air Force and WV Air National Guard. He graduated with a Bachelors Degree from Marshall University and a Graduate Certificate [...]]]>

Voters Guide US House of Representatives, Second District

Republican Candidates for US House of Representatives, Second District

CANDIDATE Robert Lawrence Fluharty

County of residence Jefferson

Party Republican

Biography

Robert Fluharty is a 20-year veteran of the U.S. Air Force and WV Air National Guard. He graduated with a Bachelors Degree from Marshall University and a Graduate Certificate from American Military University. Lifetime resident of WV, he worked 12-years in the medical field and currently works as a licensed WV investigator corroborating the integrity of government employees.

Question 1. What changes in federal laws would you favor that would better protect people and our water resources from chemical spills?

Response: Because water is the resource of life, potable water must be protected. The federal government’s responsibility is to advise and support the states in their duty to safeguard all resources. The regulations should come from the individual states, according to the constitution. I would support federal legislation to require visibility/publication of all chemicals used or introduced into the environment.

Question 2. What steps should the federal government take to reduce the number of Americans living in poverty?

Response: Quick fixes to poverty like increasing minimum wage limits are overcome by inflation and create a cyclical effect where the poor will never get ahead. The real fix is through reversing inflation by limiting the currency dump by the Federal Reserve to a point of stagflation. Audit the Federal Reserve and protect the value of the dollar.

Question 3. In view of recent Supreme Court decisions, what steps do you think Congress should take to protect the rights of all American voters?

Response: Chief Justice John Roberts said, “Our country has changed, and while any racial discrimination in voting is too much, Congress must ensure that the legislation it passes to remedy that problem speaks to current conditions.” If elected I would support a new coverage formula that advances America further towards the point where the VRA in not needed.

CANDIDATE Steve Harrison

County of residence Kanawha

Party Republican

Biography

Steve is a native West Virginian and a graduate of Sissonville High School and Brown University, where he was a District 1 Academic All-American in football. He served in the West Virginia House and Senate for a total of 14 years. Steve has been married to Kristen for 21 years and they have twins, Benjamin and Maggie. www.ElectSteveHarrison.com

Question 1. What changes in federal laws would you favor that would better protect people and our water resources from chemical spills?

Response: Different levels of government should help ensure certain protections. While the federal government over regulates in many areas, there should be oversight to ensure the safety of our water supply and other essential needs. The state is taking steps to help prevent negligent chemical spills and the federal government should ensure our water is safe from intentional attacks.

Question 2. What steps should the federal government take to reduce the number of Americans living in poverty?

Response: The best way out of poverty is a good job. I have a proven record of working for a better economy and was named one of the “Best for Jobs” when I was in the legislature. In Congress, I would work for policies that help the private sector create jobs.

Question 3. In view of recent Supreme Court decisions, what steps do you think Congress should take to protect the rights of all American voters?

Response: Many have fought to protect the freedoms we have in our great nation, including the right to elect our leaders. We must not allow vote fraud to devalue the votes of American citizens. We should help ensure clean elections by requiring each of us to show identification when we vote.

CANDIDATE Charlotte Lane

County of residence Kanawha

Party Republican

Biography

Native West Virginian and proven Republican leader. Graduate of Marshal University & WVU School of Law. First female President of the West Virginia Bar Association. Former House of Delegates member, former Chairman of the WV Public Service Commission, and most recently served as International Trade Commissioner under President George W. Bush.

Question 1. What changes in federal laws would you favor that would better protect people and our water resources from chemical spills?

Response: I do not believe that changes in federal law would have prevented the chemical spill that took place in the Elk River, nor am I aware of any proposed changes in federal law that I could support. The state legislature just passed a new law that should prevent something like this from happening in the future.

Question 2. What steps should the federal government take to reduce the number of Americans living in poverty?

Response: Under President Obama, the massive expansion of the government over the last six years has dramatically widened the income gap between the rich and the poor. There is a direct correlation between the expansion of government and the retraction of economic prosperity. I believe we need to encourage job creators, not discourage them with overregulation and over taxation.

Question 3. In view of recent Supreme Court decisions, what steps do you think Congress should take to protect the rights of all American voters?

Response: State governments, normally the Secretary of State, have jurisdiction over the election process and have been tasked with maintaining the Constitutional right of citizens to vote. As with other processes of functional government, the judicial branch of government will intervene if rights are violated.

CANDIDATE Alex X. Mooney

County Jefferson

Party Republican

Candidate did not reply

CANDIDATE Jim Moss

County of residence Putnam

Party Republican

Biography

Cost Management specialist with Toyota Motor Manufacturing in Buffalo, WV. Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from West Virginia University Institute of Technology and MBA from the University of South Carolina. Native of Dunbar and graduate of Dunbar High School. Born again Christian. Running for Congress in obedience to the Lord’s calling upon my life. Please visit: http://jimmossforcongress.weebly.com

Question 1. What changes in federal laws would you favor that would better protect people and our water resources from chemical spills?

Response: I don’t believe that the federal government should have any role in protecting our water resources from chemical spills. First, WV lawmakers and WV DEP should assure state laws are in place to protect our water resources. Second, WVAW management should know what is going on above its sole water intake. Local responsibility was and is still needed!

Question 2. What steps should the federal government take to reduce the number of Americans living in poverty?

Response: None. States and communities should have responsibility for poverty! Relying on Federal government to take care of us allows us to make poor decisions as a state. If West Virginia politicians were held accountable for our poor then they would be forced to encourage job growth and work harder to ensure our young people complete their high school education. (fact: (Exceeded word limit)

Question 3. In view of recent Supreme Court decisions, what steps do you think Congress should take to protect the rights of all American voters?

Response: Repeal the 17th amendment, restore state legislators power in D.C. Today those who make, interpret, and enforce the law are not guided by the United States Constitution—the supreme law of the land—as it was originally written. Politicians in Washington today are only beholden to special interests groups not “states or voters”. Respect for our Constitution must be restored.

CANDIDATE Ken Reed

County of residence Morgan

Party Republican

Candidate did not reply

CANDIDATE Ron Walters Jr.

County of residence Kanawha

Party Republican

Candidate did not reply

Democratic Candidates for US House of Representatives, Second District CANDIDATE Nick Casey

County of residence Kanawha

Party Democratic

Biography

I’ve been a lawyer and an accountant for 37 years. My wife, Mary, and I were born and have lived worked in West Virginia all of our lives. We are blessed that our two children are living and working in WV. I’m active with my church’s charities and enjoy spending part of my summers working on homes in Clay County. nickcaseyforwv.com

Question 1. What changes in federal laws would you favor that would better protect people and our water resources from chemical spills?

Response: I support a regular inspection process for chemical storage tanks. Our water utilities need to have better emergency planning. Our water infrastructure, and filters, needs repaired and upgraded. We have too many water main breaks, leaks, and service disruptions. We should have a secondary in-take and backup supplies. All basic things an advanced nation like America should have.

Question 2. What steps should the federal government take to reduce the number of Americans living in poverty?

Response: We need more people to enter the workforce and get off government assistance. Raising the minimum wage, job training, and drug rehabilitation will help. Sound budgeting, a top-to-bottom review of the tax code, and a greater investment into our crumbling infrastructure will create jobs. I’m an accountant and know how to set financial priorities and fund them.

Question 3. In view of recent Supreme Court decisions, what steps do you think Congress should take to protect the rights of all American voters?

Response: Citizens United must be overturned. The Supreme Court should have never allowed unlimited secret campaign donations to fund ads. Voters deserve to know the source of campaign ads to enable them to make an informed decision on their truthfulness. Our laws must make voting accessible to all voters. Efforts to restrict early voting, for example, are reprehensible.

CANDIDATE Meshea Poore

County of residence Kanawha

Party Democratic

Biography

I am a member of the WV Legislature with five years of service. I was born in Charleston and graduated from Capitol High School. As a first generation college graduate, I earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Howard University in Washington, D.C. and a law degree from Southern University Law Center in Baton Rouge, LA.

Question 1. What changes in federal laws would you favor that would better protect people and our water resources from chemical spills?

Response: As a member of the WV Legislature, I championed amendments to the chemical spill bill to help prevent the next crisis from happening. The protection of America’s water supply can’t remain a back-burner issue in Congress. We have to change the way we register and monitor above-ground chemical tanks near water resources to ensure that we are protecting all Americans.

Question 2. What steps should the federal government take to reduce the number of Americans living in poverty?

Response: Poverty affects us all. When we continue to allow Americans to live in poverty we keep our country from being as strong as it can be both nationally and internationally. The first step that can be taken by the federal government is to increase the minimum wage.

Question 3. In view of recent Supreme Court decisions, what steps do you think Congress should take to protect the rights of all American voters?

Response: Congress should take steps to make voting more efficient and less burdensome for every valid legal age citizen. The right to vote is the great equalizer. Every American voice matters regardless of their education, gender, race or social economic background. Congress’ actions should never disenfranchise a registered voter.